How Much Does It Cost to Fix an Off-Track Car Window?

If your car window is misaligned or stuck, but the hand crank or electric motor appears to be working fine, you may be dealing with an off-track window. Though never fun, off-track windows are a common automotive problem and can be easily fixed at home with the right tools and knowledge.

Symptoms of an Off-Track Window

The most common symptom of an off-track window is the window glass turning sideways as it goes up. Usually, grinding noises don’t indicate an off-track window. Depending on the problem, professionals will repair or replace the off-track window.

Causes of Off-Track Windows

Reasons for off-track windows include insufficient lubricants, faulty power window motors, and damaged regulators. If the track is rusted or bent to the point of being unusable, you will need to replace the window regulator and, most likely, the window motor.

Cost to Fix an Off-Track Window

It costs between $100 and $200 to fix an off-track window. Depending on your car’s make and model, replacement regulators typically cost between $190 and $270, not including a motor. Replacement motors can cost between $120 and $240, not including a regulator.

It’s best to have a professional fix an off-track window to avoid damaging it. The most common symptoms of an off-track window are the glass turning sideways as it goes up and slow movement, even for a power window. Grinding noises usually don’t indicate an off-track window.

How to Fix an Off-Track Window

Fixing an off-track window is a meticulous process and is best left to professionals. They will typically perform the following steps:

1. Remove the car door panel in case the car window fell into the panel.
2. Remove the hand crank (depending on the car model) and related components to make it easier to remove the door.
3. Remove the door and take out the covering to detach the cables. Afterward, detach the rest of the attached wirings.
4. Check the window track for damage. If there is, apply a white lithium lubricant on the window track in case of rust. If the damage is beyond repair, the technician will likely suggest replacing the window as a whole.
5. Check the window motor for any mechanical damage. Attach a voltmeter to get a better read of what’s causing the difficulty.
6. Similar to a faulty window motor, damaged cables may also be the cause of the issue. Check all attached cables and wiring for damage.
7. Align the glass pane to the bottom of the window frame to realign it with the lines on the car door interior.
8. Gently push the window glass until it’s aligned with the track. Check for spots where it’s bent, squeezed, or plugged, and adjust appropriately.
9. Clean the rollers and tracks before lubricating them for better traction.
10. Lastly, reattach all the wiring, cables, and components before reconnecting the door and testing the window.

It’s important to have a professional fix an off-track window to avoid damaging it further. The cost to fix an off-track window ranges from $100 to $200, depending on the extent of the damage. Replacement regulators typically cost between $190 and $270, not including a motor, while replacement motors can cost between $120 and $240.